Auberge du Soleil
Perched on a sun-drenched hillside in Rutherford, California, Auberge du Soleil is an iconic, adults-only retreat that brings the rustic elegance of the French Riviera to the heart of Napa Valley. Founded in 1981 by French restaurateur Claude Rouas, it originally opened as the region’s first fine-dining destination before expanding into a world-class luxury inn. The sprawling estate is renowned for its sweeping, panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and its seamless integration into the natural topography of the Mayacamas Mountains.
The property is celebrated as a spectacular botanical and artistic sanctuary. Designed to echo a classic Provencal landscape, the terraced grounds are draped in olive groves, oak canopies, and fragrant Mediterranean herbs, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature at every turn.
Highlights for Your Visit
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Wander the Sculpture Garden: Explore a meticulously curated outdoor gallery integrated directly into the landscape, featuring over 100 contemporary works by California artists nestled among towering oaks and vibrant Mediterranean blooms.
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Hike the Parcours Trail: Embark on a nature walk along the property’s dedicated forest trail, which winds through shaded groves of ancient oaks and fragrant California bay laurels, offering tranquil moments of woodland immersion.
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Relax in the Olive Groves: Find serenity in the estate’s terraced hillsides, which are beautifully planted with heritage olive trees, lavender, and rosemary, evoking the sensory experience of a classic Provencal garden.
Experience the ultimate intersection of Mediterranean romance and spectacular wine country landscaping by booking a luxurious stay at Auberge du Soleil.
Photo credit: Napa Valley from Auberge du Soleil 1.jpg by Stan Shebs is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported.